Brazil’s David Luiz has taunted England ahead of tonight’s friendly between the countries, claiming Roy Hodgson’s side are mentally conditioned to fail.

After a mediocre showing in Wednesday’s 1-1 draw with the Republic of Ireland, the column writers have again been lamenting the gulf in class between England and international football’s elite.

Qualification for next year’s World Cup in Brazil is far from assured for Hodgon’s men but even if they do emerge from Group H, Chelsea’s Luiz believes another tournament of under-achievement beckons.

‘I have come into a national team which is used to winning things,’ Luiz told The Sun.

‘England do not win titles. The mentality of winning a tournament is not there and that is difficult.

‘The problem is they do not win anything. I have watched them in previous tournaments and things have not always gone well for them.’

Luiz, left, in Brazil training with Hernanes (Picture: Action Images)

Luiz’s comments come after a similar dig from his Brazil team-mate Neymar, who dismissed the Three Lions’ chances at next year’s tournament.

But Luiz added: ‘I actually think England are a good side. Neymar said some things, but he has been playing in Brazil and is now going to Barcelona.

‘I’m not sure Neymar actually knows much about English football or whether he knows any of the players. Why should he? His comments don’t surprise me.’

Both players are expected to start for the five-time World Cup winners at the refurbished Maracana Stadim in Rio de Janeiro.

Luiz’s Blues team-mate Frank Lampard will captain England and Hodgson also confirmed Phil Jones will start, although he would not reveal in what position he would deploy the versatile Manchester United defender/midfielder.

Despite, the hail of criticism this week, Lampard insists the mood is good in the English camp and also predicted a bright future under Hogdson.

The midfielder said: ‘There is a very positive feel among the players. I feel as positive as I have for quite a while in an England squad, because mainly of the emergence of the youth and the pace in the team which is, I think, a big threat we hold and we want to use that threat.

‘I am certainly confident, and the manager and I think the squad is that there are lads that are going to make a name for themselves and possibly will be peaking at the perfect time.’